State governors across Nigeria, convening under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), have vowed to address the pressing issues of food crisis, economic hardship, and hunger affecting citizens nationwide. With a focus on introducing various strategies and measures, they are determined to alleviate the suffering of the populace.
According to a report from the NGF, governors have embarked on proactive initiatives to combat the current food crisis and economic challenges. Collaborating with relevant stakeholders, they are committed to finding lasting solutions to these pressing issues.
Following discussions with President Bola Tinubu in February, where concerns over the hike in food prices and economic hardship were deliberated, governors have sprung into action. Notable efforts include the push for increased crop production to counter food shortages, as exemplified by Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and his counterparts from Taraba, Ondo, and Kogi states.
In Akwa Ibom State, plans are underway to establish an agency aimed at purchasing food items in bulk and selling them at more affordable prices to residents. Governor Umo Eno has submitted a bill for the agency’s establishment, emphasizing transparency in the process.
Similarly, other states have implemented measures such as raiding warehouses suspected of hoarding food supplies, banning bulk purchases of grains to prevent hoarding and exports, and initiating programmes to eradicate hunger and poverty through agricultural investment and agro-industrialization.
In Ekiti State, Governor Kayode Fayemi has allocated significant funds to improve food production, including subsidies for land preparation and support for livestock farmers. This commitment underscores the state’s determination to enhance food security and stimulate economic growth.
Furthermore, collaborations with international partners, such as Sweden, indicate a concerted effort to explore innovative solutions and leverage technical expertise to bolster the agricultural sector.
The endorsement of federal government food security programmes by state governors reflects a strong political will and synergy in the agricultural sector. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, expressed optimism about the collaboration, emphasizing its potential to drive down food inflation, create employment, and reduce poverty.